“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men,” (Colossians 3:23 BSB)
“And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6 NLT)
“Everything is permissible,” but not everything is beneficial. “Everything is permissible,” but not everything is edifying.” (1 Corinthians 10:23 BSB)
While tomorrow is actually Halloween, being Saturday, there are a number of parties going on today. This is a day that has haunted Christians for ages (pun intended). Many struggle with how to approach this highly promoted celebration.
I must admit that I wavered in my approach in the past. I have participated, unplugged, and opposed, at different points in my life. I finally settled on an approach that works for me. I have simply unplugged from the festivities.
I believe that my motivation for how I choose to deal with this day is far more important than the actual approach I take. The Bible makes it clear that I have the freedom to participate; however I need to make sure that my participation is not self seeking. I need to stay tender to the needs of those around me keeping their best interests at the forefront of my decision making.
As I determine my approach, it is critical that whatever I do, I do it as unto the Lord. The question, “What would Jesus do?” is appropriate for this occasion. By putting Jesus, and others, ahead of myself I am more likely to avoid the temptation to compromise.
Finally, if I am not able to do whatever I do by, and in, faith then I should not do it. If it is the desire of my heart, and I am able to with confidence and conviction participate freely in the Halloween festivities regardless of the opinions of those around me, then I have the freedom to participate. If my conscience dictates that I unplug, then I should unplug without judging those who participate. If I feel led to oppose the holiday then that is what I should do. If I oppose I need to do it in a way that is revealing Truth rather than attacking those who participate or unplug.
This is a good time to ask the Lord to reveal to me what motivates me in how I choose to live in all areas of my life. Do I make my choices based on peer pressure, fear, culture, etc. Or do I follow a pattern of decision making that more closely reflects…
…Eric’s Life Lesson # 169: “Whatever I do should be done by faith as unto the Lord.”